§ MR. GRIEVEasked Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, If it is correct that, after 1st of July next, the Light Dues on ships over sea will be increased by five per cent, and, seeing that Govern- 1972 ment property on shore now contributes to local rates, whether there is any intention on the part of Her Majesty's Government to make ships of the Royal Navy liable for Light Dues?
§ THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUERSir, I am informed that with regard to the first part of the Question it is correct that after the 1st of July the light dues on shipping will be increased by five per cent. Respecting the second part, there is no intention on the part of the Government to make the ships of the Royal Navy liable for light dues. I do not think there is any analogy between that case and the case of Government property on shore. It would offer difficulties which I cannot now enter into.